I have always disliked going to the dentist. Big time. But now things are so much easier, that I don't dread it. I forgot to mention earlier that I had a crown about a year ago, and asked for (and received) nitrous oxide. That was great! They didn't give me much, but it worked. You have to be careful though, to sit in the lobby a few minutes before going back to your car.

I suggest that you get a prescription from your doc for an anxiety reducer for this procedure. That will probably do it for you. Then I suggest that you find a good cognitive behavioral therapist who can work with you to teach you how to control and manage your anxiety and your COPD. If you get anxious over this, it's a clear bet that you will be anxious over other situations, especially as the disease progresses. It makes sense.....if you can't breathe you will die, and I don't know many people who wouldn't get anxious over that! So find someone who can help you learn to get control.

I had a lot of heavy dental work done a few years ago as the result of an accident. Since my mouth was open for it anyway, I didn't need to breathe through my nose. It never was an issue. During the actual dental surgery, I was under anesthesia and put on oxygen just during that time. No problems at all.

Thanks for replies. I have asked Dentist if I can sit up a little bit but he says he cant do his job properly and that he treats alot of COPD patients with no problems. Perhaps a change of Dentist? I have had COPD for a number of years and am now classed as "Severe". I have undergone Pulmonary Rehab, and regulate my breathing as much as possible but when it comes to dental treatment I fail miserably. Other situations I am fine with. I just keep telling myself that its only an hour of treatment and I will get through it ok.

Just tell your dentist and hewill advise you on the best way to breathe for you .You will be ok